Chicken Stir-Fry Breakfast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a delicious balance of sweetness, saltiness, and a slight tang, creating a deeply satisfying flavor profile. It’s simple to prepare and made with everyday ingredients, making it ideal for both busy mornings and weekend brunches. It’s also a great make-ahead option that works well for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 900g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, thinly sliced

• 120ml pineapple juice

• 100g brown sugar

• 60ml soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon annatto powder (optional, for color)

• Cooking oil, for frying

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a large bowl, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, salt, pepper, and annatto powder if using. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
   Add the sliced chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to enhance flavor.

3. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little cooking oil. Fry the marinated chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until cooked through and beautifully caramelized.

4. Serve:
   Serve hot with garlic fried rice and a fried egg for a hearty and traditional-style breakfast meal.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 4 hours or overnight
Cooking time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a kick.

• Tropical Twist: Mix in pineapple chunks for extra sweetness and texture.

• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.

• Color Alternative: Substitute annatto with paprika for a similar hue.

• Different Protein: Try using beef or turkey slices for a different take.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze cooked or marinated chicken for up to 2 months.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in short bursts until warmed through.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness, but chicken breast can also be used.

Can I use canned pineapple juice?

Yes, canned or bottled pineapple juice works well. Just be sure it’s 100% juice without added sugars.

Is annatto powder necessary?

No, it’s optional and mainly adds color. The dish will still taste great without it.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate overnight. A minimum of 4 hours is needed for good flavor.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 minutes, flipping once during cooking.

Is this dish sweet?

Yes, it has a naturally sweet flavor from the pineapple juice and brown sugar.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, it’s a great make-ahead dish. You can store the marinated chicken in the fridge or freeze it.

What’s a good oil for cooking?

Use a neutral oil like canola, vegetable, or sunflower oil.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.

What side dishes go well with this?

Garlic fried rice, steamed vegetables, or a fried egg complement it perfectly.

Conclusion

This chicken stir-fry breakfast dish brings together the bold flavors of sweet, tangy, and savory in one satisfying meal. It’s simple, adaptable, and perfect for starting your day with something hearty and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it for brunch or prepping it ahead, it’s sure to be a hit every time.